JD Vance revealed that US-Iran negotiations in Islamabad ended without agreement after 21 hours. Iran’s nuclear ambitions, frozen assets, and strait status remain key disputes. Iranian media cited “excessive demands” from Washington, while sources confirmed multiple disagreements between both delegations.
The Shah family, owners of the attacked bulk carrier Mayuree Naree, control Thailand-based GP Group, a 157-year-old multinational empire. Originating from Indian rice traders, the family built businesses in shipping, pharmaceuticals, mining, aviation, and technology. Ranked among Thailand’s 50 richest families, their flagship companies include Precious Shipping and Mega Lifesciences.
China will restart passenger rail service from Beijing to Pyongyang after a six-year suspension due to COVID-19. Train K27 will travel via Dandong, taking about 24 hours and 41 minutes. The move signals renewed cross-border cooperation and aims to boost people-to-people exchanges between China and North Korea.
Thailand’s new government under Anutin Charnvirakul faces mounting pressure as the Middle East conflict drives up energy prices and freight costs. Authorities urge energy conservation, limit air-conditioning use, and shift civil servants to work from home as Thailand grapples with slowing growth and rising economic uncertainty.
A 20-member Darjeeling Youth Delegation, led by Harsh Vardhan Shringla, concluded a four-day New Delhi visit featuring interactions with the Vice President, Union Ministers, and C-suite leaders. The programme included Parliament exposure, UPSC orientation, and cultural visits, strengthening confidence, civic understanding, and national integration among young leaders from the hills.